Sprint Cup heads to Magny-Cours for penultimate round of the season

Following the mid-July sprint races at Misano, the GT World Challenge Europe returns to action this weekend with another fast-paced showdown at Magny-Cours. A 40-car grid is expected – a record for the series at the French circuit – ready to battle in a championship that remains wide open, with the final verdict set to be delivered only at the season finale in Valencia this September.

The circuit itself stands as one of the most technical and demanding of the season, featuring 17 corners (nine right-handers) across its 4.411-kilometre layout. Its combination of high-speed straights, sweeping bends, and tight chicanes places relentless demands on tyre performance. 

"After the scorching test at Misano two weeks ago, we can confidently say the P Zero DHG tyres have faced every racing challenge expected in their debut season," explains Matteo Braga, Pirelli’s Racing Circuit Manager. "At Magny-Cours, the tyres will need to deliver consistent grip – even in cooler temperatures – on a surface that is naturally low in adherence. They must also provide stability under braking and corner entry. I expect two tense, hard-fought races, as we’ve seen all season."

Among the main support races at the event will be the Championnat de France FFSA GT 4, for which Pirelli is the exclusive tyre supplier.

As in the Endurance Cup, the Sprint Cup and other Pirelli-supported series at Magny-Cours will once again feature the P Zero DHG tyres, tailored in different specifications to suit all GT classes. The key innovations of the new P Zero, fitted to GT3 cars, include advanced materials that ensure greater consistency in long-run car balance. Should rain intervene, teams will rely on the Cinturato WHB wet-weather compound.